How to Stop an Allergic Sneezing Fit Without Medication

By Dana Poblete

When I was growing up, I had constant allergies. In the summer, many, many things in the outdoors would set me off. In the winter, dust and mold kept me reaching for the Kleenex. I was forever sneezing and blowing my nose.

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How To Stop An Allergic Sneezing Fit Without Medication

This culminated during a trip to Friday Harbor in the San Juan Islands with my husband-to-be. We were at an outdoor restaurant and I was sneezing so hard I could barely eat my barbecued crab sandwich. Tears were streaming down my face, and the diners around me were starting to edge away. Finally, a kind gentlemen came over and told me what I should do about it. It sounded completely bizarre and I didn't believe him, but I also wanted to eat my lunch. So finally, I excused myself to the bathroom, tried what he suggested … and it worked. Ever since then, it has been my secret weapon whenever allergies give me grief and I start a sneezing fit.

Though this cure can be done anywhere, it's easiest in a bathroom. Not only because it looks very strange and bathrooms have a modicum of privacy, but also because the sink is very handy.

Step 1

Wash your hands.

Step 2

Turn on the faucet and cup your hands beneath it.

Step 3

Once you have a little pool of water in your cupped hands, submerge your nose in it. Hold it there as long as you can.

Step 4

Release the water. Repeat if needed.

Step 5

Dry the outside of your nose with a paper towel, or let it air dry. Your nose may feel tender and tickly, but you'll no longer be actively sneezing.